Clear Creek RV named Kitsap County Employer of the Year

Vadis named Clear Creek RV its 2015 Kitsap County Employer of the Year and presented them with a plaque in recognition of the business’ commitment to inclusive employment. Pictured is Clear Creek RV Co-owner Paul Gurtler, Jacob, and Vadis Kitsap County VP Deanna Wentz

Vadis is pleased to announce that Clear Creek RV Center has been named its 2015 Kitsap County Employer of the Year in recognition of the business’ dedication to inclusive employment. Clear Creek has been working with Vadis since 2014 to offer employment to people with disabilities.

The partnership began in 2014 when Jacob, a Vadis client, received a job offer from Clear Creek. He was excited to start his very first job and become part of the team.

“They enabled Jacob to have his dream job, working with RVs,” said Deanna Wentz, Vice President of Vadis Program Services in Kitsap County.

Co-owners Paul Gurtler and Jim Fisher are proud of Clear Creek RV Center being a family owned and operated business since 1976. Gurtler said creating opportunities for people with disabilities is just part of being a responsible member of the community.

“Often it is possible to make accommodations that will allow them (people with disabilities) to achieve success,” Gurtler said. “In our case, it meant being flexible on work hours, which we were able and glad to do. It has been a rewarding experience for us, as I hope it has been for Jacob as well. Jacob enjoys anything to do with RVs, and works hard at washing the units assigned to him. My employees really accept Jacob and want to see him succeed.”

When there were recent changes in staffing at the company, Gurtler and Fisher stayed strong to their commitment to inclusive employment.

“Jacob’s position was never in jeopardy,” Wentz said. “A credit to how much he is valued and respected at Clear Creek. They were committed to keeping him on as an employee and have set a wonderful example of what it means to be an inclusive employer in our community.”

Gurtler has message for other businesses who are not yet inclusive employers.

“I would encourage anyone who thinks that they may have an opportunity for a person with disabilities to talk with Vadis,” he said.